If your business is in need of a single used forklift or an entire fleet, the first task is to determine what model forklift is best for your organization. As a business owner or manager, you may not be familiar with the types or models of forklifts. Fortunately, the experts at The Forklift Pro know how to help you pick the right model for the job.
How to Choose a Used Forklift
The Forklift Pro wants to help first-time forklift buyers with tips for purchasing the right forklift for the job. Before you start shopping, you should know the answers to these questions:
- Will the forklift need to be used indoors or outdoors, or both?
- How high will you need to lift materials?
- How many hours per day will the forklift be used?
Once you’ve answered these questions, it’s easier to narrow down the type of forklift best for your needs.
Indoor vs Outdoor Forklift Use
If the job requires a forklift to be used indoors, for example, in a warehouse or storage facility, then it is best to shop for used forklifts that are battery-powered. Electric forklifts are designed for indoor use to eliminate the risk of dangerous fumes. Indoor forklifts also use cushion tires. Cushion tires are best for flat, smooth surfaces. They also have a better turning radius for small, narrow aisles and doorways. If the doorways and aisles are restricted in width, the experts at The Forklift Pro recommend looking into a used VNA forklift, or a very narrow aisle forklift.
Forklifts that will be used outdoors on rugged terrain are typically powered by a traditional combustion engine and use pneumatic tires. If your forklift is going to be moving through gravel, sand, rocks, or other rough terrain and weather, it’s important that it has the engine and tires to do so.
Don’t Get Shorted on Forklift Height
For jobs that require lifting materials onto shelves and platforms, it is imperative that you know how tall these materials will need to be lifted before purchasing a used forklift. Forklift models have different maximum heights based on their size and weight. Ensure your forklift will be able to reach the height needed to accomplish the job before purchasing.
Putting in the Hours on Used Forklifts
Quality forklifts typically have a lifespan of 10,000 to 20,000 hours. With proper care and maintenance, a business can use a forklift for years. When shopping for a used forklift, factor the amount of hours already on the forklift plus how many hours a week it will be used for your business to determine whether it is a sound investment.
Best Used Forklifts For Sale
There’s no doubt that first-time buyers of forklifts are under a lot of pressure. However, The Forklift Pro can help alleviate some of that pressure with tips and guidance on purchasing quality used forklifts. We know exactly what you need to get the job done, and done well.